Episode Details

I sometimes make plans based on how much energy I wish I had and I’m a HUGE optimist about what I can truly accomplish. 

On paper, it all fits. I can get the work done, take care of everything at home, say yes to the invitation, and start a new project. Then the week begins, and I wonder why I’m so tired and why I feel so depleted. I see events on the calendar that don’t feel like something I’m going to enjoy as much as things I now can’t get out of. 

If you’ve done that too, maybe we can give ourselves a little more room to pay attention.

I’m trying to notice what leaves me feeling better and what consistently drains me. Sometimes an activity takes energy but is still worth it. A good conversation or a day spent doing something meaningful might leave me tired in the best way. Other times, the way I’m doing something needs to change.

I don’t always notice the difference when I’m focused on getting through the list. That’s why I want to pause as this new season begins and ask: What is my energy telling me?

Maybe I need more breathing room between commitments. Maybe there’s something I keep saying yes to that I don’t want to do anymore. Or maybe the thing that restores me needs an actual place in my week.

My friend Christina reminded me last week that we can’t give from an empty cup. A metaphor that you’ve probably hear before but it’s worth asking – what fills up your cup and how can you do more of that? 

You don’t have to redesign your whole life. See if there’s one small adjustment you could make. Paying attention to what you need is a hopeful way to care for yourself.